First and foremost, I have been a lurker for so many years and just wanted to say it has been fun to follow from afar so many of the adventures and great posts on this forum. I have learned more than I could have imagined and I feel as if I already know many of you. Onto a few thoughts:
Just got the Mark XVII on bracelet. The bracelet may be the most perfect, most comfortable, most wearable of any I have ever owned. Spectacular does not begin to describe the fit, and the capability of adjustment.
Recently sold a 3239 and found the bracelet wonderful, but the lack of adjustments (even with the half-link) created a situation where it was always a bit too small or a bit too large.
My 3878 dial may be one of the most beautiful ever, if it were 41 or 42mm, it would get worn way more often.
Had a chance to wear the new Port Annual Calendar blue dial at the LV Boutique over the weekend. And.....wow. Just.....wow. 42mm may have made me a buyer on the spot.
Speaking of boutiques, I have visited many over the years - and let me tell you the level of service an knowledge varies greatly. The boutiques in New York and Bal Harbour (Miami) are top notch. The sales staff are collectors and they make you feel welcome, the boutique in Bal Harbour was so wonderful, it converted my Wife into a lover of the brand. That being said, the LV boutique (at the Wynn) has fallen to disappointing levels of service. I went in this weekend hoping to get a strap for the 3878 and was told there were only two straps in total that would fit. I actually had to point out that this was incorrect. In addition, I started inquiring about catalogs and additional publications - was told there was nothing. When I left the Bal Harbour boutique last time, I had a virtual library to take home, plus a new travel case. The boutiques are the face of the brand - both LV boutiques need to do better!
VERY excited for SIHH 2016 and the hopeful arrival of new Pilot line. I am truly hoping that there are a number of offerings smaller than 43mm.
Finally, I hope to be much more active on the forum, it is a great place and I look forward to maybe meeting some of you!
LBH in PHX
